Learning Across the Lifespan

Learning happens in all stages of people's lives as well as in different environments, not only in schools, universities and adult education organisations but also at work, in informal settings and on free-time.

Transition from a manufacturing economy to a technology-driven service and knowledge based economy has changed and globalized the nature of work and working environments. The dynamic and complex nature of today's society requires a workforce and citizenry that is flexible and equipped to learn and adapt. Public services and employers are, on the other hand, faced with an increasing need to provide their workforce with greater spaces for personalisation, innovation and professional development.

The prerequisite for the future well-being and competitiveness of our societies is providing citizens with functional places and spaces for learning, up-to-date learning tools and educational services that support lifelong learning. It also needs to be understood how learning influences the well-being and mental growth of individuals of different ages and how learners can be supported in those stages of their lives where great transitions take place.

Research in this theme can cover topics from the capacity of places, spaces and milieu to support individual and communal learning throughout life to how architecture, technology and urban planning can meet the needs of learners at home, in schools and at work. Research is also needed in order to develop new practices that promote learning in formal and non-formal education and working life.

Research focuses under this theme include:

   • educational systems
   • teaching and learning
   • informal learning
   • learning at work
   • lifelong learning

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